Bonfire Night

Bonfire Night is traditionally celebrated on the 5th November, and this year it will be a Wednesday, however, you will find lots of fireworks events taking place across the whole week and weekend throughout South East England. See our fire-cracking list of events, with a wealth of inspiration and dates for your diary, and head out with family and friends to enjoy a colourful evening, brightening up the winter night sky and bringing smiles to all.

Best Firework Displays in the South East

Explore our featured list below, or scroll down to the bottom of the page to discover more fireworks and bonfire events across the destination. 

• 1st November 2025, Petersfield Firework Display, Petersfield, East Hampshire 
• 5th November 2025, Fireworks Display, Southsea Common, Portsmouth (F)
  With site opening at 4pm with stall and entertainment followed by fireworks from 7pm - Remember, Remember the 5th of November.
• 5th November 2025, Yarmouth Fireworks and Torchlight Procession, Isle of Wight
  The procession will make its way up the High Street and to the Common with over 1,000 participants creating a stunning light show.
• 7th November 2025, Utilita Bowl Firework Party, Southampton, Hampshire
  Spectacular annual fireworks party held at the home of Hampshire cricket with a whole host of family entertainment on site.
• 8th November 2025, Mayflower Park Southampton Fireworks, Southampton, Hampshire
  Join Mayflower Park for an explosive evening of fun and excitement at the Southampton Family Fireworks Display!
• 8th November 2025, Winchester Torchlight Procession & Fireworks, Winchester, Hampshire
  Head to the centre of historic Winchester for the annual torchlight procession and fireworks night event

Counties covered include Hampshire, Sussex, Kent, Berkshire, Surrey, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Isle of Wight and Dorset. There are plenty of things to do for the whole family and lot of entertainment for the kids.

Silent / Low-Noise Firework Displays

Silent fireworks, more accurately described as low-noise fireworks, are a type of pyrotechnics designed to minimise loud bangs and booms by using reduced amounts of flash powder and focusing on visual effects like colorful bursts, sparkles, and shimmering patterns. This ensure everyone can celebrate big occasions without the need for big bangs and is designed for individuals with sensory sensitivities.

• 25th October 2025, Ardingly Fireworks Spectacular, Haywards Heath, West Sussex 
  An earlier, child-friendly fireworks spectacle will take place. Perfect for the little ones and those who prefer their fireworks a touch quieter.
• 2nd November, 2025, Fawley Firework Spectaculat, Fawley, Southampton
  Waterside's first-ever Silent Firework Spectacular

What is Bonfire Night and who is Guy Fawkes?

Also known as Guy Fawkes Night, the event originates from the failed Gunpowder plot of 1605 and has been marked in Great Britain for more than 400 years. Arrested guarding explosives intended to assassinate the King, Guy Fawkes became synonymous with the plot and it’s his effigy associated with the phrase ‘penny for the guy’.

To celebrate the survival of King James I, bonfires were lit across London and an Act of Parliament was passed calling of an annual thanksgiving. Although its connection with politics and religion has dwindled throughout the years, the numerous events taking place in South East England show the celebrations to be as popular as ever.

Fireworks Safety

If attending a display, ensure that Bonfire Night passes safely and without incident by following fireworks safety tips as set out by event teams. When buying fireworks for your own party, look out for the British Standard Kitemark BS7114.

List of Firework Displays near me

Check out our hand-picked favourites or find something near you by clicking the 'map view' button below.